FEATURES

Resiliency classes enable Airmen to be 'best selves'

  • Published
  • By Airman First Class Rachel Loftis
  • 99th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. --  Members of the U.S. Air Force often find challenging obstacles in their way, be it day-to-day work-related tasks, recovering from traumatic events, or just dealing with everyday life in general. These obstacles can cause stress and can hinder the performance of an Airman.

The ability to withstand, recover and grow from traumatic events and stressors in life can be defined as resiliency. Nellis Air Force Base has put together resiliency courses which focus on a holistic approach to fitness, targeting the mental, social, physical and spiritual pillars.

"The goal of the class is to have participants have the self-awareness and tools they need to be their best self," said Jenna Lightfoot, 99th Force Support Squadron Airman and Family Readiness Center lead master resiliency instructor. "It also teaches them to be the best Airman, leader, spouse, parent and friend they can be. Participants will take away a set of skills that will make them stronger, more productive and effective. Most of all, participants will now have skills they can rely on when life hits them over the head with a baseball bat."

The class teaches themes such as adaptability, self-regulation, decision making, positive thinking, communication, connectedness, perspective, and purpose.

"We teach these skills that most people already use, only we give it terminology and steps that can be easily taught and reinforced to those around us," said Marcy Holland, 99th FSS career assistance advisor.

Resiliency often impacts Airmen in different ways. The courses can change perspectives, give participants the opportunity to understand themselves, and create the courage to change.

"The class allows participants to evaluate and identify specific areas in their life that can be strengthened," said Lightfoot "Strengthening the pillars, utilizing a proactive approach to wellness provides stability and enables one to persevere in the face of challenges."

Nellis AFB offers a three-day Resiliency Training Assistant Class every quarter for Airmen in the grades of E-5 to O-4. RTA candidates must be approved through their unit leadership and meet and exceed all standards. Once trained, RTAs can teach skills in their squadrons through CAF Days and commander's calls.

Nellis AFB also offers a two-day Resiliency Enhancement Seminar every other month, which is open to all Airmen and their spouses. RES is for those who are interested in learning the skills and applying them both professionally and personally.

For more information or to register for a resiliency class, contact Master Sgt. Marcy Holland at marcy.holland@us.af.mil, Master Sgt. Christopher Blair at christopher.blair.5@us.af.mil, or Jenna Lightfoot at jenna.lightfoot@us.af.mil.